In 2024, the exemption ranges from a minimum of $349,720 to a maximum of $699,426, based on county median home sale prices. The increased number provides more substantial equity protection for homeowners, acknowledging the varying real estate values across the state.
The protected amount is called the “homestead exemption.” All homeowners automatically have a homeowner's exemption, which protects part of their equity from involuntary sales (foreclosures). Recording a declaration of ownership extends this protection to voluntary sales.
Homeowners exemption reduces taxable value, decreasing annual property tax. Homestead exemption protects home equity from creditor claims and during bankruptcy.
The protected amount is called the “homestead exemption.” All homeowners automatically have a homeowner's exemption, which protects part of their equity from involuntary sales (foreclosures). Recording a declaration of ownership extends this protection to voluntary sales.
1. Senior Citizen Homeowners' Property Tax Exemption. The Senior Citizen Homeowners' Property Tax Exemption is available to homeowners who are at least 65 years old and meet certain income requirements.
Obtain the claim form from the County Assessor's office where the property is located. Submit the completed form to the same office. Once the exemption has been granted, it remains effective until a change in eligibility occurs, such as selling or moving out of the home. Annual filing is not required.
The home must have been the principal place of residence of the owner on the lien date, January 1st. To claim the exemption, the homeowner must make a one-time filing with the county assessor where the property is located.
The exemption offers eligible homeowners the opportunity to shield up to $28,000 of the market value of their homestead (a dwelling and up to one acre of land) from property taxation. For example, if a home is valued at $100,000, the property tax will generally be billed as if the home were valued at $72,000.